The model or style number is a naming system for our shoes. While most of our "higher-numbered" styles feature more technology than our "lower-numbered" shoes, that is not always the case. When deciding on a particular shoe, both the intended use of the shoe and your individual needs should be considered. The full model number, which is broken down into 3 parts, can be located on the underside of the tongue.
The letters before the number designate the gender and the activity for which the shoe was designed, as follows:
MT = Men's Trail
WT = Women's Trail
MO = Men's Outdoor/Multi-sport
WO = Women's Outdoor/Multi-sport
MW = Men's Walking
WW = Women's Walking
MX = Men's Cross-Training
WX = Women's Cross-Training
MC = Men's Tennis
WC = Women's Tennis
KJ = Kid's Running
KV = Kid's Running with hook and loop closure system
KT = Kid's Tennis
KX = Kid's Cross-Training
RC = Racing/Competitive
The last two digits in a running shoe's style number specify the type of shoe as shown below:
40 (Optimal Control): Supported by medical and podiatric experts, shoes in this category provide maximum control, stability, cushioning and support for biomechanical needs, such as pronation or low arches (e.g., 840, 1540).
50 (Fitness Running): For training on roads or for indoor workouts, the 50 series offers the combination of visual appeal and innovation with the responsiveness and power athletes need.
60 (Stability): Designs that offer industry-leading stability to reduce pronation while also providing unparalleled cushioning and comfort (e.g., 860).
70 (Light Stability): The perfect combination of stability and speed, all in a lighter, sleek profile designed for runners who train at a faster pace (e.g., 770).
80 (Neutral): For high-mileage runners who require light shoes and the protection of superior cushioning (e.g., 980, 1080).
90 (Speed): For faster runners who want every advantage, including a superior ride and fit. The choice styles for professional and non-professional speed and distance runners (i.e., 890).
The letters after the numbers generally indicate the major colours of the shoe. For example, WB indicates white and blue and BK indicates black.
In addition, some of our model numbers include a V, which indicates the version of your shoes.
A great example is the New Balance 880v7. The 880 has received multiple updates (v2, v3, v4, v5, v6, v7) with new and improved technologies and stylish colourways.
This makes it easy to find the current version of your New Balance favourite! A few more examples are below:
Running
1540 > 1540v2
880v4 > 880v5 > 880v6 > 880v7
860v4 > 860v5 > 860v6 > 860v7
Walking
624 > 624v2 > 624v3 > 624v4
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